Bill > HB437

This bill modifies the procedures and penalties related to parole violations for individuals under the supervision of the Board of Pardons and Paroles. It clarifies that when a parole violation is based on a new arrest, the parole court must determine if the evidence reasonably satisfies them that the parolee committed the new offense. For certain serious underlying offenses, such as violent crimes or sex offenses, parole will be revoked if the parolee is arrested for a new felony or possesses a firearm and the board is reasonably satisfied they committed the offense. For less severe violations, such as misdemeanor arrests or absconding, the board has discretion to revoke parole or impose sanctions like confinement in a residential treatment center or county jail, with a minimum of 45 days for certain violations. The bill also introduces provisions for situations where charges from a new arrest are dismissed or result in an acquittal, requiring the board to consider reinstatement or immediate eligibility for parole. Additionally, it establishes a new position for Parole Revocation Hearing Officers and outlines their duties in determining the sufficiency of evidence for parole violations. Finally, it clarifies that if charges from a new arrest are dismissed or result in an acquittal, the board must either immediately reinstate parole or make the parolee eligible for the earliest possible parole hearing to review the circumstances.

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